Top 10: Ways To Maximize Cardio Workouts

You know that you have to do cardio, but the thought of spending a significant part of your evening sweating on a machine, under fluorescent lighting, while staring at a boring TV show, leaves something to be desired. Being sympathetic to this, we've compiled the top 10 ways to maximize your cardio workouts with regard to time and results. Incorporating these tips into your workout will help you spend less time on the treadmill and more time watching sports from your couch.

Number 10

Pick an activity you enjoy

If you hate to run, then don't because it's not one of the best ways to maximize your cardio workouts. That doesn't mean, however, that you should swear off all cardio activity. The key to sticking with a cardiovascular routine is picking an activity that you really enjoy doing. If you're a recreational cross-country skier or swimmer, for example, then do those activities a couple times a week at an increased intensity. Before you know it, it won't even feel like work at all — and that is one of the best ways to maximize your cardio workouts.

Number 9

Get the right equipment

Whatever your chosen cardio activity is, having the right equipment is a must. Not only will it allow you to perform the activity correctly, but it will also minimize your chances of injury and it's one of the simplest ways to maximize your cardio workouts. Furthermore, the fact that you will probably look forward to trying it out — and, if you're the type, showing it off — and it will motivate you to do more of whatever it is you like to do. For instance, if you're a runner, go invest in the best pair of running shoes and sports watches you can afford or if you're into rowing, buy yourself a cool pair of rowing gloves.

Number 8

Be prepared

If you'd like to ride the stationary bike for 30 minutes, three times per week, but you don't have the required patience to pedal your way to nowhere, then make sure to bring along a good book or magazine (just make sure you keep your pace up) or your MP3 player that's loaded with your favorite kick-ass songs. Music is a powerful motivator and if used correctly, it can serve as one of the choicest ways to maximize your cardio workouts. Besides, the right tunes can make time fly by, which will make your workouts seem like they've finished before they've begun.

Number 7

Switch it up

If you get bored being on the same machine for 30 minutes at a time, you might want to hit two or three different machines for 10-15 minutes each. This way, you won't have the chance to get bored. Furthermore, your body will not get the chance to adapt to any given activity and it will thus burn more calories, which is why you're looking for ways to maximize your cardio workouts.

Number 6

Sneak it in

If you really can't stand doing cardio, but are pretty consistent when it comes to weight training, try sneaking in a few minutes of intense cardiovascular activity between sets. For instance, you could try skipping or sprinting for two minutes between each set of bench presses. It's rough, but it's a great workout and it'll be over before you know it. In fact, many athletes swear by this method.

You'll lose that gut before you know it if you find ways to maximize your cardio workouts...